And The Best-Dressed Award Goes To…
Fringes, glitters, and sequins…blue jeans, leather, big hair, and heavy make-up. None of these stereotyped images come together better than on a female country star. However, this look belongs to the past. Fashion has never been more fun and exciting as it is today. New and innovative designers are pushing the envelope of country fashion and today’s current crop of superstars are taking advantage of these fresh ideas. It has taken many years—and we may have to admit that we will never ever get to see Dolly Parton in a couture creation—but our ladies of country are certainly giving Hollywood divas a run for their money in many a best-dressed list.
For instance, American Idol Season 4 winner Carrie Underwood has certainly sharpened more than her vocal skills through the years. She has transformed from a fresh-faced country girl to a goddess on the red carpet. She loves showing her legs in heavily embellished mini dresses, but can also leave your mouth hanging when she puts on sophisticated gowns. Whatever Underwood is wearing, however, there is always that hint of country in her that can never be obscured by her stylist’s hand. Badgley Mischka and Naeem Khan are some of her favorite designers.
Another blonde and beautiful American Idol alum, Kellie Pickler, definitely loves fashion and knows what looks good on her. The former beauty pageant contestant favors heavily embellished, figure-hugging, golden or silver gowns for her red carpet appearances. Her sexy outfits, sunny personality, and Southern twang are a perfect combination every time. Kellie does her homework, and is often seen in a front row seat come Fashion Week. Zuhair Murad has dressed Kellie many times.
Meanwhile, Taylor Swift, country music’s newest “It Girl,” has gained admiration for her award show choices. Her gowns, such as the stunning, red Angel Sanchez one-shouldered gown she wore during the 44th Annual Academy of Country Music Awards (ACMA), are always age-appropriate yet never boring. Taylor has an elegance about her that never fails to translate into her red-carpet choices. When not working, she loves to wear cute sundresses, sandals, and her trademark curls. Swift has remarkable personal style and we can certainly expect more fashionable choices from this teen celebrity.
Finally, many fashion critics will surely question Miley Cyrus’ inclusion in this list. However, fashion is supposed to be fun, and according to her fans, the 16-year old is definitely having fun with fashion and trying to find the style that best suits her personality. Her red carpet fashions may not be to everyone’s liking, but when she doesn’t try too hard to impress or “sexify” her image, Cyrus has the best street style compared with many of her peers. She is still learning, but with age and the right stylist, we can certainly look forward to more adventurous (and appropriate) fashion from Cyrus.
Solo artists are not the only ones making a fashion splash in the country scene. Jennifer Nettles of Sugarland eschews embellishments, opting instead for simple yet gorgeous gowns that skim her slim figure and accentuates her shoulders. On stage, however, her more casual look is enhanced by a confidence in her vocal prowess.
